Above The Whistle
Welcome to Above The Whistle. The podcast that takes you beyond the X's and O's and into the mindset of greatness as we sit down with coaches/athletic directors/former players across the country.
Above The Whistle
Brad Clifford: Elevation through Adversity
Brad Clifford, a former tight end from the University of Utah, joins us to share his remarkable journey from a sports-filled upbringing to his collegiate football career in Utah. Despite his talent for rugby, Brad chose to focus on football, a decision influenced by strong personal connections with coaches like Kyle Whittingham, Gary Anderson and Kalani Sitake. Through engaging personal stories, he discusses the complexities of the recruitment process and the pivotal role mentorship played in his athletic development. Brad's insights offer a candid look into the challenges young athletes face when transitioning from high school to college sports.
Discover how Urban Meyer's pursuit of excellence compares to Kyle Whittingham's empathetic coaching style, as seen through Brad's experiences. He shares an unforgettable freshman-year punt return mistake that illustrates Kyle's balance between public critique and private support. This journey from redshirt freshman to senior year, under Kyle's mentorship, highlights the transformative impact of a coaching approach that combines accountability with empathy. Brad's narrative underscores how recognizing and developing talent can redefine an athlete's path.
Beyond the field, Brad's transition to founding Elevation Health is marked by his personal experiences with injury and mental health challenges. He emphasizes the importance of integrating mindset, psychology, and physiology for true health optimization. Brad's story speaks to the need for personalized health approaches that go beyond traditional treatments, considering individual biological and environmental factors. As we explore the intersection of sports, coaching, and wellness, Brad’s journey inspires a holistic view of health and success, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive lifestyle support.
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